November 3, 2009

Notes on the Saints' Monday Night triumph

The Saints defense allowed only three third down conversions all night for the Falcons, who entered the game converting 42% of their third downs, and got only 27% Monday night.

The Saints intercepted and sacked Falcons QB Matt Ryan three times. Both starting cornerbacks Tracy Porter and Jabari Greer, and free safety Darren Sharper, collected crucial interceptions at key times. Five interception return touchdowns lead the league and tie a franchise record. The 489 interception return yards so far are a new team record.

Sharper, who has been enlivened by the Saints this year, has 61 career interceptions, ninth best in league history. He remains the active leader in interceptions and is tied for the league lead in interceptions with seven.

The Saints continue to lead the league in total offense (428.7 yards per game), points per game (39.0), and passing touchdowns (16, tied with three other teams).

The Saints are second in the league in first downs per game, averaging 23.3, behind the Patriots at 23.9. Their 46% third down conversion rate is fifth best in the league. Their average time of possession, 33:39, is third best in the league. The Saints average 4.5 yards per carry and 153.3 yards per game rushing, both fourth best in the league.

The Saints defense is 20th in scoring, a number hurt by the last two weeks. The team is 17th against the pass and 11th against the run, 16th overall.

ESPN's Adam Schefter noted: Stat of the month or maybe the year: This season, the Saints defense has six touchdowns, the Browns offense has five.